Kalu Sidh Temple is one of the four Siddh Peeth of Dehradun, located in Kaluwala village near Bhaniawala. Nestled in the dense Thano Forest Range, it is frequented by many devotees daily. Located around 26 km from Dehradun, it is well connected by road. The temple is dedicated to Sage Kalu, one of the 84 disciples of Sage Dattatreya. Situated near a small river, the temple offers a serene environment, attracting both devotees and nature lovers. In addition to Sage Kalu, the temple houses many deities like Lord Shiva,
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Kalu Sidh Temple is one of the four Siddh Peeth of Dehradun, located in Kaluwala village near Bhaniawala. Nestled in the dense Thano Forest Range, it is frequented by many devotees daily. Located around 26 km from Dehradun, it is well connected by road. The temple is dedicated to Sage Kalu, one of the 84 disciples of Sage Dattatreya. Situated near a small river, the temple offers a serene environment, attracting both devotees and nature lovers. In addition to Sage Kalu, the temple houses many deities like Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, and others.
Char Sidh Peeth of Dehradun
Dehradun is known for its four revered sites, collectively known as "Char Siddh Peeth" of the region. Besides Kalu Sidh, the other three shrines are Manak Sidh, Laxman Sidh, and Mandu Sidh. All these shrines are situated in the four corners of Dehradun, within a radius of 15 km. It is believed that visiting all four shrines in a single day while fasting may fulfill one's wishes.
Mysterious Temple
Most of the ancient temples are known for their interesting story and folklore, Kalu Sidh is no exception. One interesting fact about Kalu Sidh temple is it doesn't have a roof, showing its resemblance with prominent Dhari Devi Temple. It is said that villagers have tried to build a roof but failed every time. Hence, the idol of the sage is kept under an open sky.
Prasad
Daily aarti is performed by temple priests, attended by villagers and devotees. Jaggery is the most commonly offered prasad during prayers. Additionally, there is a tradition among villagers to offer the first milk of their cow and buffalo at the temple after childbirth.
Festivities
Every year on the occasion of Maha Shivratri, people gather in large numbers to offer water to the Shivling placed in the temple courtyard. During the Shravan month, long queues of devotees can be seen offering water at the Shivling as well.
Opening and Closing Time
The temple doors open for the devotees daily at 6 AM and closes around 7 PM after the evening prayer. Devotees can visit the shrine during this time to offer their prayers.
Bhandara
Generally, a bhandara is organised by the temple committee on every Sunday with the help of the devotees. If someone's wish is fulfilled, they also organised a bhandara as a gesture of gratitude.
History
According to the legend, Sage Dattatreya the son of Sage Atri and Anasuya, had 84 disciples who performed extreme penance to please Lord Shiva. Pleased by their dedication, Lord Shiva bestowed upon him with enlightenment. Among these, the four disciples known as Sage Laxman, Sage Kalu, Sage Mandu and Sage Munik attained Samadhi and renounced their bodies.
To mark their remembrance and to pay them homage four temples were constructed at these places, now collectively known as Four Sidh Peeths of Dehradun.
Important Tips for Traveller
- Visitors must book a taxi, cab, Vikram or auto to conveniently reach the temple.
- Stay alert and take care of your belongings, as the temple is home to many monkeys.
- Various stalls near the temple sell Prasad and other puja items offered during worship.
- Free Two Wheeler and Four Wheeler roadside parking is available outside the temple.
- On special occasions like Shivratri and Sundays, the shrine becomes overcrowded, and devotees may face parking issues.
- A free shoe rack is available outside the temple.
Nearby Attraction
Devotees can also explore some other notable attractions nearby the temple, some of them are : -
